For individuals facing tooth loss or structural damage, one of the most effective solutions offered by modern dentistry is dental crowns. This prosthetic application aims to restore teeth to their former health, both aesthetically and functionally. Thanks to advanced materials and technologies used today, dental crowns provide results so aesthetic they are almost indistinguishable from natural teeth. They are also of great importance for improving chewing function and maintaining oral health.
What are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are special coverings that are placed over damaged, weakened, or aesthetically deficient teeth, enclosing the entire tooth. A crown reconstructs the top part of the tooth, both improving its appearance and increasing its durability. Dental crowns are most often preferred for teeth that have lost substance due to decay, cracked or worn-down teeth, and teeth weakened after a root canal treatment.
These coverings, typically made from materials like ceramic, porcelain, zirconium, and metal-supported materials, can be applied in different ways depending on the patient’s needs and the dentist’s recommendations. Porcelain and zirconium are preferred for aesthetic-first areas, while metal-supported crowns are chosen for areas requiring durability.
In Which Cases Are Dental Crowns Applied?
Dental crowns offer a solution for many different oral and dental problems. They are one of the most effective methods of protection in cases where the structural integrity of a tooth has been lost. The risk of fracture in teeth that have had root canal treatment increases over time, so placing a crown is recommended to strengthen them. Crown application is also preferred for teeth with large fillings, as there is a risk of the filling falling out over time.
For aesthetic reasons, dental crowns are also used in cases of discoloration, shape abnormalities, or diastema (gaps between teeth), especially in the front teeth. In some orthodontic cases, crowns are used to align and improve the appearance of teeth.
What are the Types of Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are classified into various types based on the material used. Each type of crown offers different advantages:
- Porcelain Crowns: Are highly successful aesthetically. They offer the closest appearance to natural tooth color and are preferred for front teeth.
- Zirconium Crowns: Have both a durable and aesthetic structure. Since they do not contain metal, there is no risk of allergy and they have high light translucency.
- Metal-Supported Porcelain Crowns: Have a metal inner part and a porcelain outer part. While highly durable, dark reflections can be seen at the gum line over time.
- Full Metal Crowns: Are used in areas where aesthetic concerns are minimal, typically for back teeth. They are long-lasting and durable.
- Gold Crowns: Are rarely preferred, but they have high abrasion resistance and are a biocompatible material.
The choice is made by considering factors such as the tooth’s position, aesthetic expectations, chewing force, and the patient’s budget.
How is a Dental Crown Application Performed?
Crown application is usually completed in two stages. First, the dentist prepares the tooth to be treated by removing a certain amount of material from around it to create space for the crown. Then, an impression of the inside of the mouth is taken and sent to a lab. A custom-made crown is designed in the laboratory.
After a temporary crown is placed, the permanent crown is applied to the patient in the second session. During the application, the dentist’s careful work and the crown’s compatibility with the gum are of great importance. An improperly made crown can lead to gum problems, bad breath, and chewing issues.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
The lifespan of dental crowns depends on both the material used and the person’s oral hygiene habits. On average, a dental crown can last between 10-15 years. However, regular dental check-ups, good oral hygiene, and avoiding habits that could damage the crowns can extend this period.
Crowns made with high-quality materials like zirconium and porcelain are more long-lasting in terms of both aesthetics and durability. Additionally, factors like smoking, acidic beverages, and teeth grinding can negatively affect the lifespan of crowns.
How Should Dental Crowns Be Cleaned?
Dental crowns, just like natural teeth, should be cleaned with care. If oral hygiene is neglected, the tooth beneath the crown can decay, or the gum can become inflamed. Using dental floss, interdental brushes, and antibacterial mouthwash is very effective at this point.
Regular visits to the dentist for check-ups help protect both the crown and overall dental health. Special attention should be given to the areas around the edges of the crown, as plaque can build up there.
What are the Advantages of Dental Crowns?
- Protects and strengthens the tooth’s structure.
- Provides a natural aesthetic appearance.
- Improves chewing function.
- Covers discoloration or shape abnormalities.
- Protects weakened teeth after root canal treatment.
- Is long-lasting and durable.
Thanks to these advantages, dental crowns offer very successful results, both functionally and aesthetically.
Who is a Dental Crown Suitable For?
Dental crowns are suitable for individuals with large cavities, weakened tooth structure, those who have had root canal treatment, those with tooth shape abnormalities, or those who want to achieve a more aesthetically pleasing tooth appearance. Crown application can also be done for protective purposes in people with worn teeth due to teeth grinding.
In cases of tooth loss, crowns can also be used as part of a bridge application. For a crown to be made, the root of the tooth must be healthy. A tooth with a sound root can be properly shaped to place a crown.
Are Dental Crowns Painful?
Local anesthesia is applied during the crown procedure to prevent the patient from feeling pain. Patient comfort is ensured during tooth shaping and impression taking. After the treatment, there may be temporary sensitivity, but this usually subsides on its own within a few days. If persistent pain or discomfort is felt, the crown may need to be re-evaluated.
How Much Do Dental Crowns Cost?
The prices of dental crowns vary depending on the type of material used, the treatment plan, the dentist’s expertise, and the clinic where the application will be performed. High-quality crowns like zirconium and porcelain may be more expensive, while metal-supported crowns can be among the more economical options. Since each patient’s needs are different, it is not possible to give a fixed price. Contact us now for dental crown prices.
What are the Most Common Mistakes Regarding Dental Crowns?
Uninformed applications or poor maintenance habits regarding dental crowns can lead to various problems. The most common mistakes encountered are:
- Gum problems due to inadequate oral hygiene.
- Damaging the crown by biting on hard objects.
- Neglecting the recommended check-ups by the dentist.
- Not using dental floss.
- Choosing low-quality materials.
To avoid these mistakes, it is of great importance to choose the right clinic before the application and to follow the maintenance rules afterward.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should Be Considered After Getting Dental Crowns?
- Avoid very hot and very cold foods in the first few days.
- Adhere to the cleaning routine recommended by your dentist.
- Avoid biting hard-shelled foods.
- Use dental floss and interdental brushes.
- Do not neglect regular dental check-ups.
What is the Difference Between a Dental Crown and a Veneer?
The terms dental crown and veneer are often confused with each other, but they have different technical meanings. A dental crown is a structure that covers the entire tooth, i.e., it surrounds the tooth in all directions. A veneer (like porcelain laminate), on the other hand, is a much thinner structure applied only to the front surface of the tooth. While veneers are mostly preferred for aesthetic purposes, crowns offer both aesthetic and structural support.
